Which term describes the individual or entity that loans money, or provides goods, in a financial transaction?

In a financial transaction, the term that refers to the individual or entity that loans money or provides goods is "creditor." This term is used to denote a party that extends credit to another party, expecting repayment over time, typically accompanied by interest. Creditors can be banks, financial institutions, or individuals who lend money or provide goods with the understanding that they will be compensated later.

The debtor, in contrast, is the party that borrows funds or receives goods from the creditor and is obligated to pay back the amount borrowed, often with interest. An insurer provides protection against loss or damage in exchange for premium payments, and a guarantor is someone who agrees to be responsible for the debt or obligation of another party if that party defaults. Therefore, in the context of this question, "creditor" is the appropriate term for someone who lends money or provides goods in a financial transaction.